With the help of a modelling agency in Saint John, some of the region’s top fashion designers and retailers opened their closets for a charity fashion show, Saturday.
Models walked the runway in a marathon of fashion shows that took place in the port city with proceeds going toward a local elementary school and its lunch program.
Among those showcasing locally made clothes was modelling agency owner, Lorraine Peters.
"I wanted to highlight uptown Saint John retailers and I wanted to bring in designers people may not have the opportunity to see other than bringing them to a show like this,” says Peters.
The show featured all forms of fashion from luggage to rain boots over the weekend.
Halifax designer, Heather MacMillan says she took part in the show because she feels it’s important to support local retailers.
"I think it’s really important that we support local and support our local economy and there is a lot of people who are pouring their heart and souls and bringing really interesting and unique designs and pieces,” MacMillan says.
MacMillan started designing beach wraps over a year ago, now her products have expanded across the Maritimes.
“As a person who was always going to the beach and looking to have something beautiful to wear, I think my business has grown out of wanting to share that with other women.”
Peters was inspired to give back after witnessing the good deed of a restaurant owner in Saint John, Holly Singh of Thandi.
"She has supported Saint John Baptist School lunch program for many years now, giving up her time, money and effort and I was just really inspired by that,” Peters says.
Peters says the fundraiser was also a way to help boost her models self-esteem.
Model, Audrey Janes says the show was a success for everyone involved.
"It gives you a lot of confidence and you know you're helping somebody while having fun and it just makes the experience ten times better,” Janes says.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Mary Cranston.
